Calls
Norrlandsnavet invites proposals for need-driven research projects characterized as short and action-oriented projects. These projects must be planned and executed in close collaboration with several SMEs in Norrland. The proposed projects should address specific research problems that will contribute to the development, innovation, and growth of SMEs in Norrland.
The funded need-driven projects are designed to broaden the scope of topics addressed in Norrlandsnavet and to draw in additional SMEs to participate in Norrlandsnavet activities. By building on cutting-edge competencies, these need-driven projects will seek to address the specific needs, both existing and emerging, of SMEs in Norrland.
Norrlandsnavet call for the funding of “need-driven” projects
Need analyses have been carried out continuously to map the diverse needs of SMEs across various industries. While a broad spectrum of needs has been identified, Norrlandsnavet has highlighted the following topics for 2025 project proposals.
- SMEs as key enablers of the green transitions
- Supporting SMEs with talent attraction and retention
- The role of SMEs in fostering attractive and sustainable region
- Competence development for SMEs in traditional industries
- SME oriented research on the artistic and creative industry
- Fostering growth and Innovation in family firms.
Project proposals on topics other than those highlighted above are also welcome. However, to increase the opportunity of being granted project funding, a proposal must be clear on how it will target real needs among SMEs in Norrland, and how the project would benefit SMEs concerning their development, innovation, or growth.
Preconditions to be eligible for the grant
- Research is carried out in close collaboration with small and medium-sized businesses in Norrland and in respect to their specific needs.
- Research funds will only be allocated to LTU researchers, but we encourage cooperation with other universities, institutions, and industry actors.
- We encourage younger and junior researchers (post-doc and assistant/associate professor) to apply for funding.
- We encourage multi-disciplinary research between the research subjects and the departments
Evaluation criteria
- Relevance to the vision, goals, and objectives of Norrlandsnavet
- Extent of collaboration with SMEs from inland areas of Norrland (i.e., non-coastal cities)
- Expected impact on the development, innovation, or growth of SMEs in Norrland
- Novelty – the potential impact on academia, industry, and society at large
- Incorporate a diverse range of technology and innovation challenges faced by a larger group of SMEs, rather than focusing solely on one or two specific SMEs.
Application budget, timeline, and funding decisions
The research projects will be funded by Norrlandsnavet with a grant allocation of 300,000 to 800,000 SEK, to be used for a maximum of one year. Familjen Kamprad's terms and conditions for funding will apply to this call. The funding will be allocated to only LTU researchers with a maximum of 35% overhead (OH) cost. Note that OH includes costs for premises. Most funding should cover salary costs, but travel and dissemination-related costs can also be included.
The application submission period opens on March 24, 2025. All applications must be submitted by May 30, 2025, no later than 23:59, via email to
The final funding decisions will be taken based on comments provided by external academic reviewers and in consultation with the Norrlandsnavet steering group during June 2025. The earliest start-up date for the project is set for 1 August 2025. Additionally, the project should start no later than September 1, 2025.
Those applicants who are granted funding are expected to share what they have learned during the project and are required to submit a final report and financial statement at the end of the project period. Project leaders must present their research project ideas and results to the Norrlandsnavet steering group meetings. This involves presenting updates at status meetings held twice a year and participating in dissemination activities and seminar series throughout the project duration. Participation in all project status update meetings is mandatory.
Please see submissions instructions and application form below:
Further information contacts:
Please direct any questions related to the Need Driven project to
- Nerine Mary George, Scientific coordinator nerine.george@ltu.se
- Vinit Parida, Scientific Leader vinit.parida@ltu.se
Updated: